Newcastle Have 'Strong Interest' In Signing Former Man United Star In January, But Player Is 'Not Fully Convinced' By Move

Newcastle have ‘strong interest’ in signing former Manchester United defender Chris Smalling as Eddie Howe looks to strengthen his backline, according to reports.

Kieran Trippier became the first major signing under Newcastle’s Saudi Arabia-backed owners, with the Magpies landing him in a £12m deal from Atletico Madrid.

And the Premier League club activated Chris Wood’s release clause and signed the New Zealand-born striker for £25m from Burnley.

Newcastle are expected to spend further in the January window, with the Magpies locked in a Premier League relegation battle.

According to reports, Newcastle are weighing up a potential move for Roma defender Smalling.

TeleRadioStereo (via Sport Witness) reports that Newcastle now have ‘strong interest’ in the 32-year-old centre-back.

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• Newcastle to target former Manchester United star as ‘ideal man’ to build team around

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However, the Magpies face a tough test in securing the services of Smalling, who is ‘not fully convinced’ by a move to Newcastle.

Smalling, who is under contract until 2023, is also considered a crucial first-team player for Roma manager Jose Mourinho.

The former England international spent a decade at Old Trafford and made 323 appearances for the Red Devils.

Smalling lifted two Premier League titles, a Europa League, an FA Cup and a League Cup during his time at United.

The former Fulham player struggled to secure regular playing time towards the end of his United career and was initially shipped off to Roma in a loan deal in 2019.

PA

Roma made Smalling’s move permanent in 2020 after agreeing an initial £13.6m deal with United.

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• Manchester United star offered to Newcastle

Newcastle could put their full focus on securing Smalling after talks broke down over a deal for Lille defender Sven Botman.

Botman was considered Newcastle’s No 1 defensive target for January, but the Magpies were unable to sign the 22-year-old Dutchman due to Lille’s valuation.

Newcastle have also been linked with Diego Carlos of Sevilla, Marcos Senesi of Feyenoord and Benoit Badiashile of Monaco as potential defensive transfer targets.